The Phillies are ready to break camp and the roster is still loaded with veterans that the team was unable to move. So, as Spring Training opens, the Phillies have made several veteran players available to the media for the inevitable barrage of questions that are on the minds of everyone: Why are you here? Do you wish you were somewhere else? What do you think of the Phillies' efforts to move you?
Kevin Cooney of Calkins Media reports that one name is conspicuously absent: first baseman Ryan Howard:
Phils announce early ST availability schedule. Lee Thurs, Papelbon Fri, Hamels Sat, Utley Mon. No Howard presser as of yet
— Kevin Cooney (@KevinCooney) February 17, 2015
Why would Howard be missing from this list?
The conspiracy theory, of course, is that Howard could be moved between now and then. Might the Phillies find a taker for Howard? I suppose it is possible, but the possibility remains for the other players as well. Maybe the Phillies are close to doing something in terms of trading Howard to an American League team that can better suit him.
Howard may simply wish to not have a conversation at this time. Howard has kept pretty low-key this offseason, generally not talking to anyone about his status with the Phillies or about his legal drama with his family. Howard's only appearance came as he signed his new book Little Rhino at a bookstore in Ardmore.
Of course, the Phillies do not have their first full-squad workout until February 24, one week from today. Howard might be opting to wait until the non-pitcher and catcher report date to join the team. Howard is under no obligation to report before that date. Since Howard was looking slim this offseason, he may already have his workouts underway and be ready to join the team soon as he is required to be.
Since Phillies general manager Ruben Amaro, Jr., openly declared that the Phillies would be better off if Howard was playing for another team, there will be plenty of questions for the media to ask. Howard cannot be looking forward to them, especially if he may not be looking forward to Spring Training as it is. Maybe the Phillies still can move him before Spring Training starts, unlikely as it is. If not, Howard will have to speak soon.
